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What Cars Are As Good As Kia Soul? 20 Similar Rides Worth Checking Out

If you're in the market for a new car and have your eye on the Kia Soul, you might be wondering if there are any other vehicles out there that can match its unique style and practicality. Well, the good news is that there are plenty of options to choose from! In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at 20 cars that are just as good as the Kia Soul, if not better. From subcompact crossovers to hatchbacks and even electric vehicles, there's something here for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some great rides!

But before we dive into the list, let's talk a bit about the Kia Soul itself. This funky little car has been turning heads since it first hit the market in 2009. With its boxy shape, bold colors, and spacious interior, it quickly became a favorite among drivers who wanted a fun and practical ride. Over the years, the Soul has received numerous updates and upgrades, making it an even more attractive choice for those in search of a reliable and affordable vehicle. So, what makes the Soul so special, and what other cars can compete with it? Let's find out!

How Kia Soul Stacks Up Against the Competitors

Competitors Last Release Fuel Economy
Kia Soul 2022 28 city / 33 highway
Buick Encore 2022 24 city / 32 highway
Buick Encore GX 2023 29 city / 32 highway
Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016 28 city / 42 highway
Chevrolet Sonic 2020 26 city / 34 highway
Chevrolet Spark 2022 30 city / 38 highway
Chevrolet TrailBlazer 2023 29 city / 33 highway
Chevrolet Trax 2022 24 city / 32 highway
FIAT 500 2019 28 city / 33 highway
FIAT 500L 2020 22 city / 30 highway
Ford EcoSport 2022 23 city / 29 highway
Honda Element 2011 20 city / 25 highway
Honda HR-V 2023 26 city / 32 highway
Hyundai Accent 2022 33 city / 41 highway
Hyundai Elantra 2023 33 city / 42 highway
Hyundai Veloster 2021 28 city / 34 highway
Hyundai Venue 2022 29 city / 33 highway
Jeep Renegade 2022 24 city / 32 highway
Kia Niro 2022 53 city / 48 highway
Kia Seltos 2022 29 city / 35 highway
MINI Hardtop 2022 27 city / 37 highway

Buick Encore

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway

I recently had the chance to test drive the Buick Encore, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The compact SUV had a lot of great features, like a comfortable ride and a quiet cabin.

It also had a lot of tech options, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the engine felt a bit underpowered, and the cargo space was on the smaller side.

Overall, though, I think the Buick Encore is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a small SUV.

Ground clearance 6.2 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 100.6 in
GVWR 4255 - 4384 lbs
Curb weight 3237 - 3358 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 40.80 in
Rear legroom 35.80 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 50.00 in
Which Buick Encore has the highest ground clearance?

Buick Encore GX

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 29 city / 32 highway

The Buick Encore GX stands out with its sleek design and advanced safety features.

In my opinion, it offers a luxurious driving experience at an affordable price point.

Ground clearance 7.5 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 102.2 in
GVWR 4211 - 4409 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 36.00 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 48.00 in
Which Buick Encore GX has the highest ground clearance?

Chevrolet Cruze Limited

Latest Release: 2016
MSRP: $16,089
MPG: 28 city / 42 highway

Fuel economy and safety features are key decision-making factors for the Chevrolet Cruze Limited. It has an EPA-estimated 29 MPG city/38 MPG highway. It also comes equipped with features such as 10 airbags and a rearview camera.

The Cruze Limited offers a comfortable and spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The trunk is also generously sized, providing plenty of room for luggage or groceries.

With its smooth ride, responsive handling, and quiet cabin, the Cruze Limited is a pleasure to drive. It also offers a range of available technology features, including a touch-screen infotainment system and smartphone integration.

Horsepower / Torque 138 hp / 148 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4, 1.8L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 35.40 in
Front headroom 39.30 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 52.40 in
Luggage volume 15.40 cu.ft.
0-60 times 9.5 - 10.3 sec

Chevrolet Sonic

Latest Release: 2020
MPG: 26 city / 34 highway

The Chevrolet Sonic has a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than many of its competitors in the subcompact car segment.

It also has a fuel economy rating of up to 34 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class.

Horsepower / Torque 138 hp / 148 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4
Front legroom 41.80 in
Rear legroom 34.60 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 51.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
0-60 times 7.1 sec

Chevrolet Spark

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 30 city / 38 highway

The Chevrolet Spark is a compact car that offers excellent fuel efficiency and a low starting price.

However, it lacks in power and interior space compared to larger vehicles.

Horsepower / Torque 98 hp / 94 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4
Front legroom 41.70 in
Rear legroom 33.00 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 48.00 in
Rear hip room 48.00 in
0-60 times 10.3 - 10.7 sec
Learn more about Chevrolet Spark MPG

Chevrolet TrailBlazer

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 29 city / 33 highway

The Chevrolet TrailBlazer is a mid-size SUV that competes well against its rivals in terms of performance, fuel efficiency, and spacious cabin. With its powerful engine, smooth ride, and advanced safety features, the TrailBlazer is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.

Whether you're driving on the highway or navigating through city streets, the TrailBlazer offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Its spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families and adventurers alike.

In addition to its impressive performance and spacious cabin, the TrailBlazer also offers a variety of advanced safety features. From its rearview camera to its blind spot monitoring system, the TrailBlazer is designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

Ground clearance 7.5 - 8.0 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 103.9 in
GVWR 4189 - 4409 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 39.40 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 46.00 in
What does the interior of a Chevrolet TrailBlazer look like?

Chevrolet Trax

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway

The Chevrolet Trax boasts a roomy and cozy interior that provides ample space for passengers and cargo. Additionally, it offers good fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for long drives or commutes.

However, some drivers may find its engine to be underpowered, especially when trying to accelerate or merge onto highways. Additionally, its handling is not as sporty as some of its rivals, which may be a drawback for those who prioritize performance.

Ground clearance 6.2 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 100.6 in
GVWR 4387 lbs
Curb weight 3124 - 3292 lbs
Towing capacity 1260 lbs
Front legroom 40.80 in
Rear legroom 35.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
What does the interior of a Chevrolet Trax look like?

FIAT 500

Latest Release: 2019
MPG: 28 city / 33 highway

The FIAT 500 is a stylish and compact car that offers impressive fuel efficiency and agile handling.

Its retro-inspired design and customizable options make it a fun and unique choice for city driving.

Horsepower / Torque 160 hp / 170 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4
Front legroom 40.70 in
Rear legroom 31.70 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 48.00 in
Rear hip room 43.00 in
0-60 times 8.0 sec

FIAT 500L

Latest Release: 2020
MPG: 22 city / 30 highway

The FIAT 500L is the perfect combination of style and practicality, offering ample space and advanced technology in a compact and fun-to-drive package.

With its unique design and customizable options, the 500L stands out on the road and allows drivers to express their individuality.

Inside, the 500L boasts a spacious and comfortable cabin with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it the ideal vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Horsepower / Torque 160 hp / 184 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4
Front legroom 40.00 in
Rear legroom 36.70 in
Front headroom 41.00 in
Rear headroom 55.00 in
Rear hip room 49.00 in
0-60 times 8.0 sec

Ford EcoSport

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 23 city / 29 highway

The Ford EcoSport is a small SUV that's big on personality, with quirky styling and a fun-to-drive demeanor that's perfect for city dwellers.

It may not be the most practical choice for families or long road trips, but it's certainly a unique and enjoyable option for those who prioritize style and agility.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 99.2 in
Curb weight 3300 - 3360 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 42.90 in
Rear legroom 36.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
How long is a Ford EcoSport wheelbase?

Honda Element

Latest Release: 2011
MSRP: $19,388
MPG: 20 city / 25 highway

The Honda Element is known for its spacious cargo area and distinctive, adaptable style. However, it falls short in terms of fuel economy and overall performance.

Despite its drawbacks, the Element's boxy shape and easily configurable interior make it a popular choice for those who need to haul large items or transport pets. Its all-wheel drive option also makes it a practical choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather.

Ground clearance 6.9 in
Number of seats 4
Luggage volume 25.10 cu.ft.
Wheelbase 101.4 in
GVWR 4450 lbs
Payload 675 lbs
Curb weight 3515 - 3641 lbs
Towing capacity 1500 lbs
Front legroom 41.00 in
Rear legroom 39.10 in
Front headroom 43.30 in
Rear headroom 55.00 in
Rear hip room 47.60 in
How long is a Honda Element wheelbase?

Honda HR-V

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 26 city / 32 highway

The Honda HR-V is a versatile and practical crossover that stands out with its spacious interior and excellent fuel economy, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient daily driver.

Its sleek design and advanced safety features also set it apart from its competitors in the crowded crossover market.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 104.5 in
Towing capacity 1760 lbs
Front legroom 41.90 in
Rear legroom 37.70 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear hip room 47.00 in
What is the GVWR of a Honda HR-V?

Hyundai Accent

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 33 city / 41 highway

The Hyundai Accent is an affordable and efficient compact car with a spacious interior and impressive fuel economy. However, its acceleration can be sluggish, and the base model lacks some standard features found in competitors.

Horsepower / Torque 120 hp / 113 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4
Front legroom 42.10 in
Rear legroom 33.50 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
0-60 times 8.5 sec
How Big is the Gas Tank in Hyundai Accent?

Hyundai Elantra

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 33 city / 42 highway

The sleek and stylish Hyundai Elantra packs a punch with its 147 horsepower engine and impressive fuel efficiency.

This makes it a top contender in the compact car market.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 38.00 in
Front headroom 39.00 in, 41.00 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
Learn more about Hyundai Elantra MPG

Hyundai Veloster

Latest Release: 2021
MPG: 28 city / 34 highway

The sporty little number from Hyundai is a real head-turner with its unique three-door design and sleek lines.

It's a blast to drive, with impressive fuel economy and nimble handling that makes it perfect for zipping around town.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.60 in
Rear legroom 34.10 in
Front headroom 37.00 in, 38.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 47.00 in
0-60 times 6.2 sec
Compare Hyundai Veloster engine options

Hyundai Venue

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 29 city / 33 highway

The little Hyundai Venue may not be the fastest car on the road, but it's got style for days and is packed with features that make it a practical choice for city driving.

Just don't expect to win any drag races in it.

Ground clearance 6.7 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 99.2 in
GVWR 3770 lbs
Curb weight 2612 lbs
Towing capacity 1700 - 1750 lbs
Front legroom 41.30 in
Rear legroom 34.30 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 44.00 in
What is the max weight a Hyundai Venue can tow?

Jeep Renegade

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway

Now the Jeep Renegade, it's a real head-turner. The design is bold and rugged, perfect for off-roading enthusiasts.

And let me tell you, this baby can handle anything you throw at it. It's got all the latest tech and safety features, making it a top contender in its class.

Overall, a solid choice for those who want a versatile and capable SUV.

Ground clearance 6.7 - 8.7 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 101.2 in
GVWR 4277 - 4586 lbs
Curb weight 3056 - 3532 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 41.20 in
Rear legroom 35.10 in
Front headroom 41.00 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
What is the payload capacity of a Jeep Renegade?

Kia Niro

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 53 city / 48 highway

The Kia Niro is a stylish and efficient crossover that boasts impressive fuel economy and a spacious interior.

This makes it the perfect choice for eco-conscious drivers who value comfort and practicality.

Ground clearance 6.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 106.3 in
GVWR 4079 - 4255 lbs
Payload 849 lbs
Curb weight 3117 - 3234 lbs
Towing capacity 850 lbs
Front legroom 41.70 in
Rear legroom 37.40 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 48.00 in
What is the GVWR of a Kia Niro?

Kia Seltos

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 29 city / 35 highway

The Kia Seltos is a stylish and practical crossover that offers a comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and impressive technology at an affordable price point.

With its bold design, spacious interior, and responsive handling, the Seltos is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable vehicle.

Ground clearance 7.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 103.5 in
Curb weight 2948 - 3317 lbs
Towing capacity 2800 lbs
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 38.00 in
Front headroom 39.00 in, 40.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 53.00 in
What is the max weight a Kia Seltos can tow?

MINI Hardtop

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 27 city / 37 highway

Horsepower / Torque 228 hp / 235 lb.ft
Engine options 1.5L I-3, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 30.80 in, 32.30 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
0-60 times 5.9 - 7.7 sec
Nick Marchenko, PhD

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

Full profile → LinkedIn →

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